Traditional Navajo women’s clothing often includes a pleated velvet or cotton skirt with a matching long-sleeve blouse, a shawl, foot or knee-high moccasins, jewelry and a concho or sash belt. Men’s traditional dress also includes jewelry, moccasins and velveteen shirts. While traditional Navajo clothing contains historical influences—woolen dresses made of blankets taken from traditional Mexican styles, and calico skirts influenced by white American women following the Long Walk in the late 19th century—it continues to be an important expression of culture and beliefs.

Today, most Navajo men and women wear contemporary clothing on a daily basis, dressing in traditional styles and jewelry for ceremonial and special social gatherings. In order to be recognized and helped by the Great Spirit, Navajos must first wear the appropriate clothing.

Learn about the significance of the different articles of clothing worn by Crystal Frazier in MISS NAVAJO.